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Amends 49 U.S.C. 6702 by adding a new subparagraph (H) to subsection (a)(3) authorizing a project to procure and install human trafficking awareness signage at rest stops and welcome centers along the Interstate System; redesignates existing subparagraph (H) as (I); and adds subsection (c)(4) providing that subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2) do not apply to eligible projects described in (a)(3)(H).
Amends 23 U.S.C. 133(b) by adding paragraph (25) to authorize or recognize projects described in 49 U.S.C. 6702(a)(3)(H).
Adds installation of human‑trafficking awareness signage at Interstate rest areas and welcome centers to the list of eligible federally supported transportation projects and creates a limited exception to certain statutory requirements for those projects. Also changes membership rules for the Department of Transportation advisory committee on human trafficking by adding a representative from State departments of transportation and requiring the Secretary to appoint that State DOT representative within nine months of enactment.
Strike the word "and" at the end of subparagraph (G) in subsection (a)(3) of 49 U.S.C. §6702.
Redesignate existing subparagraph (H) as subparagraph (I) in subsection (a)(3) of 49 U.S.C. §6702.
Add a new subparagraph (H) to 49 U.S.C. §6702(a)(3) establishing "a project to procure and install human trafficking awareness signage at rest stops and welcome centers along the Interstate System."
Add paragraph (4) to subsection (c) of 49 U.S.C. §6702 stating that, for an eligible project described in subsection (a)(3)(H), subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2) shall not apply.
Amend 23 U.S.C. §133(b) by adding paragraph (25) to make "Projects described in section 6702(a)(3)(H) of title 49" eligible under the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program.
Who is affected and how:
State governments / State Departments of Transportation: Most directly affected. They can sponsor and fund signage projects through STBG funds and must provide or coordinate the State DOT representative appointment to the DOT advisory committee within nine months. They will handle project planning, procurement, installation, and any required local matching funds.
Department of Transportation (federal): Must accommodate the new committee membership slot and complete the required appointment within the statutory 9‑month timeline; will oversee changes to program guidance and eligibility for STBG funds.
Recipients of federal programs and services (states, metropolitan planning organizations, local governments): Gain a clear federal-authorized funding path to put awareness signs in rest areas and welcome centers; may need to add these projects to Transportation Improvement Programs and manage routine grant procedures.
Contractors and vendors (sign fabrication/installation): Potential increase in small procurement opportunities to design, produce, and install signage at rest areas and welcome centers.
Travelers and the general public, and anti‑trafficking organizations: Likely to benefit from increased public awareness and signage that can help identify and report suspected human trafficking.
Practical effects and costs:
Equity and programmatic considerations:
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Introduced April 10, 2025 by Marsha Blackburn · Last progress April 10, 2025
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 184.
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Cruz with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 119-75.
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.